Grigor Dimitrov: “Really Did Me Good”: Grigor Dimitrov opens up about his injury recovery and mental reset ahead of Paris Masters comeback
The Bulgarian icon was sidelined after tearing his right pectoral muscle in his Wimbledon fourth round match against Jannik Sinner in July. Dimitrov was leading the world No. 1 6-3, 7-5, 2-2 on Center Court when his injury forced him to retire. He underwent surgery four days later and described his heartbreaking departure as “one of the most painful moments of my career.”
A Series of Unfortunate Retirements
Before his latest defeat, Dimitrov had already suffered multiple injury blows. He became the first player in the Open Era to retire mid-match in five consecutive Grand Slams. Their fights include withdrawals at the 2025 French Open (while leading 6-2, 6-3, 2-6 against Ethan Quinn), the 2025 Australian Open against Francesco Passaro, and the 2024 US Open quarterfinals against Frances Tiafoe. He was also unable to complete the 2024 Wimbledon match with Daniil Medvedev due to conditioning difficulties.
Finding Balance During Healing
Reflecting on his time away, Dimitrov noted that taking a step back from tennis provided much-needed clarity and rest. “I’m in very good shape, it’s been really good for me to take a step back from tennis,” he told L’Equipe. “For the first time in almost twenty years I was actually able to be home over the summer, so I took advantage of those moments. I wasn’t really following what was going on on tour, I wasn’t trying to stay in touch.
“It was important to really let go. I realized it was normal to get injured and not play every week. I accepted all of that and I’m very happy to be back.”
“I was surprisingly strong. I didn’t see it as a negative, but of course I had my doubts. It would be wrong to say that everything went perfectly. But I know how to deal with these, not only the injuries but also the mental ones.”
Return of Paris Masters
The former world number 3, who finished second at the 2023 Paris Masters, will go on to face world number 56 Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in the opening round. This will be their first career meeting. Dimitrov is also preparing to compete in doubles with experienced Frenchman Nicolas Mahut, the former world number 1, in the tournament, which will be the last tournament of Mahut’s career.
Emotional Couples Partnership
Talking about his partnership with Mahut, Dimitrov showed deep respect and admiration. “We always wanted to do a few doubles sessions together over the past years, but to be honest I never really got around to it,” he told ATPTour.com.
“It was the right time. It was the last tournament for him and it made sense. I have a very emotional relationship with him. We played against each other for many years. We competed in such a big event more than once. So we can safely say that this was a good ending for him.”
FAQ:
1. Who is Grigor Dimitrov?
Grigor Dimitrov is a professional tennis player from Bulgaria who is popular for his playing method and distinctive all-court game.
2. What happened to Grigor Dimitrov at Wimbledon 2025?
Dimitrov suffered a torn right pectoral muscle in his fourth round match against Jannik Sinner.
